Hi Nick! I really enjoy your content on this channel! 👌 Just wanted to ask if you have a video about choosing the right grip size? I know there is a way of measuring from top of the finger to bottom of palm and another one when holding the racket to have a finger space... But do you think that measurements might be right but if you have longer or shorter fingers,then you should go for smaller or bigger grip,if you understand what I mean? Thanks and all the best! And also,on the forehand moving your thumb ( not keeping it wrapped around) has anything to do with the grip size? Thanks again!
Love that you pointed out how short the grip length is on Wilson rackets. I commented this on your first racket test and I will repeat it: Compare grip lengths and you will very quickly see that Yonex is the only one who gives more space for 2h backhand users. I swear that some companies like Wilson makes grip lengths made for 1h backhand users. The solution for this is to remove the original grip, replace it with a replacement grip of your choice, and go higher up on the handle with the replacement grip. Only adding overgrip at the top will feel weird, so it's really worth it to have the ground layer of replacement grip and then overgrip on top. Makes a big difference on Wilson/Babolat/Head rackets!
104 V8 for me. I love it. You just have to adjust to the flexibility. Of course, I played with a Pro Staff 85 from late 1983 until 1995. This 104 V8 is just a lighter and larger version of the same feel. Unfortunately, my 62 year old arms and joints can no longer handle the heavy Prostaff. I can still hit it, but not for very long.
Excellent analysis of the Blades. I am 58 years old, the 104 V8 allows me to continue feeling the old school rackets, with fine profiles, but without my leg speed and strength. For doubles it is also very good and has control, I just have to put a little more spin on my shots to achieve control.
As soon as I saw the thumbnail I clicked. Although your are not so racket racket reviewer you make the best racket reviews with those points play. Please keep doing them also after picking your final racket
I really think you should test the Prince Tour line. 98, 100 310 and 100P 305. I really think 100 310 is close to what you are looking for. 100, open pattern, nice power/control ratio. Actually a hidden gem.
I played with the Prince ATS Tour 100p (18x20). In my opinion one of the worst rackets I have ever bought. Off center shots feel like dead. I have no idea what it is with this racket, because the specs are really good for me. Too many shots are a challenge/ a lottery and I do not like the sound of it either.
@@MK------- Wow really? This is one of the few rackets I dont even need to put lead in the hoop because I feel they are so extremely stabile and balanced stock with big sweatspots. I play a lot with both the 100 and 100P. Prefer the 100 at clay and slower courts, and 100P indoors and hc. Very similar rackets and easy to switch between depending on conditions which I find great. Also love the sound, and the long handle is great. All subjective i guess. :)
@@IntuitiveTennis Previously I used it with Luxilon Alu Power on 23kg and it was horrible to play. Now I use it with Head Sonic pro edge 1,25mm on 24kg and this is the best combo I've ever played. I live in Poland so my level I would say is pretty similar to D1 in USA.
I suspect that in testing rackets we largely feel whatever we've been conditioned to feel by the racket description. I'd really like to see you do blind tests, where you don't know the specs of the rackets before you try them out and have to judge them purely on how they feel in use.
Another great test video! I appreciate how critical and honest you are in these reviews so got excited when you got excited about the 104. But was dissapointed for you when it didn't work out in the end. Excited for the next one though! Are you planning on testing out any Head rackets?
Hey, Nikola! Gratz on your content. Really nice stuff.. Consider more videos about racquets. I've been following this new racquet journey series and loving it. Keep it up, bud.
Hey Nick, many new releases coming out. Maybe you should try some before you make your final decision. New Ezones, new pure drives…the new Head Gravity 98 is getting lots of love. At least 4 UA-cam playtesters are switching to it. Happy Hollidays, best, John
@ Possibly 2 from Tennis Warehouse, one dude from Australia, and at least 1 more. They all post racket reviews. I know you love the pure drive. You should try the one just released. The new Ezones are different, too. Merry Christmas, Best, John Ps: I really enjoy your posts.🎾
Thanks. I love my Blade SW 104 v7 extra length. Man … when I take a full swing and hit the ball right, it feels GREAT! I look forward to trying the Blade 104 v.9 extra length.
Great playtest again Nick. I agree with the Blade v9 98, it is like a trampoline. I tested this racket for a week and at the end it felt much better, but I didnot like the racket because I lost controll with it too many times. The 100 indeed felt much better. But they are no comparison to my Blade V8 98 18x20. The controll and feel you get with this racket is unbelievable. Especially if you are a flathitter like me. And at the net this racket is so stable and easy.
I love the Blade V8 98 18x20 too - so stable and maneuverable! I've played with it for a year or so. Glad to know there's no need for me to update to a newer model!
I played the 104 for a couple of months. At first I loved it because I couldn't miss a forehand, and that's my worst shot. I quickly realized that I couldn't hold serve with it, which was bad because that's my best shot. My guess is because it's a featherweight tin can. I weighted it up, but just to continued to play worse and worse with it the longer I used it. I ended up taking the lead off of it and giving it to my 12 year old daughter. She loves it.
I'm going to make an odd racquet suggestion. The Donnay Formula Octacore. It's 300g, 100 sq inches, and is designed to compete with the Pure Drive. You liked the Pure Drive and had good things to say about the Nova. The Formula is in a similar spec range but more arm friendly. Jonas, at Tennis Nerd, had good things to say about it.
I didn't think the Blades would be up your alley, but seeing you play with them I think were great on offense. On defence might need some adjustments with these sticks, but interested to see your final 4 you will go with!
Thank you. Some of the racquets have my strings. My thought process is if I like the racquet with other poly strings I will like it even more with mine. Also I’m comfortable with most co polys. Very few exceptions
Just from my own experience, as a beginner and not knowing what I was doing I used a low powered 18×20 Speed Pro and really struggled to hit spin but I kept at it and finally managed to hit decent top spin. I shifted to an Ezone and my coach says I really hit everything with a lot of spin now.
Hi Nik, greetings from Italy🇮🇹. For me you should give the Wilson Burn 100 a chance, it's a racket that is a bit overlooked, because the Ultra is preferred as a power racket and the Shift as a spin racket, but playing with the Burn for a year now I can tell you that I prefer it to the Ultra because not only it is a powerful and reactive racket (maybe the Ultra is even more powerful), but for me it has a better feel and the sensation of the ball is better than the Ultra. The Burn is a bit of an all-purpose racket, and is definitely more spin friendly than the Ultra. It's a stiff racket but it moves very well, I also tried the lighter LS versions with the 18x16 string pattern and I found them very nice even if they wear out the strings more. It's also cheaper and I can say that quality-price is definitely one of the best on the market.
I switched to the Blade 100 this year. I think a more crisp and lively poly helps with the low RA. 5-10grams in the handle also gives it a bit more connected feel for me. I think the slightly thicker beam is what you were feeling between the 98 and 100.
I play with Blade100v9 and love it. I like feel rackets with thin beams and lower to medium stiffness. If you are used to playing with powerful Babolat 100" tweeners like the PureAero or PureDrive, you aren't initially going to like the Blade series because they are more flexible offer a smidge less power and a smidge more control. Nik should just stick with stiffer tweeners to optimize his serve. I like the Blade100v9 and the Head Speed MP (100) as these are softer and have a good blend of feel, power and comfort (flex). Personally, I think the Blade100v9 is the best 100 on the market but racket choice is very personal and a lot of depends on what you have been using in the past.
@@KozielloRU Hybrid: multifilament Technifibre NRG2 16g mains at 54 lbs with poly Kirschbaum Max Power 17G crosses at 50 lbs. I drop tension on M and X by 2 to 4 lbs in colder weather. I play outside in the winter with temps 40-60 F.
Otherwise, another good option would be a gravity tour 98 (305g) in the coming January (2025); testers often say stiffer feeling than other Auxetic versions released last year from the series (295, 305; 100 sq etc.)
Amazing reviews. Really emphasize how subjective tennis racquet reviews are - Different frames for different players. But I know that you want the opposite things from a racquet than mine (I like the Blade 98 18x20), so I'll keep following these reviews for a potential switch 😂
Hi Nick , I don’t know if you dislike the Yonex head shapes but in case you’re not , definitely the Ezone 100 and Percept 100D can be really a good match to your previous racquet . Actually because of the isometric shape even the 98’s are 100-like near the sweetspot and norrowing down to the throat . 100D is a 18x19 super spin friendly but witha good control/power ratio and it is very good for flat shots . I actually prefer Ezone 98 to the 100 . Both sticks are 67/66 RA so quite firm compared to all the recent release . If the beam size is a thing then Ezone 100 all the way . Best whishes for the new racquet coming as it will be destroyed by your finishes !! 😎
The Blade 98 (16x19) needs customizing to optimise performance. you need lead at 3/9 and 12 to open the sweet spot and it adds stability and plough through, Also a slightly higher string tension will minimise trampolining.
Howabout the Blade Pro? The string pattern looks more open than the Blade 98 with 16x19. Similar to a Pro Staff. So I reckon the Blade Pro would have the best feel.
Hey Nik. Great video, as always. I thought I'd let you know that something has happened to your audio and it now lacks crispness and clarity. I started to notice it in the last couple of weeks. The audio is a bit muffled and lacking high frequencies. I'm sure it's something that likely can be fixed with just a bit of EQ. All the best!
@@IntuitiveTennis Sounds like it's YT compression that's at fault. Maybe your uploaded videos are too big/too high spec and YT compresses them aggressively?
@@deepseadiver8191actually I figured it out. It was the voice isolation at start of video. Couldn’t not be corrected unfortunately bc the live audio was poor from construction noise.
If you have access and want old school feel. CX200 Tour 16x19 has great feel but would need lead for heavy hitting as SW is low. Definitely not a Hyper-hammer. It's fast though, more control than Blade, Ezone, etc. I got one when they did a colour change and sold old stock for next to nothing. When doing FX500, compare to SX300 or CX400 and CX Tour 200 for giggles. @@IntuitiveTennis
@@IntuitiveTennis Towards the end of your video it became clear the Blade is not your jam. Oh well, onwards and upwards on the frustrating racquet journey. At least it's good for channel content 👍
I switched from ezone 98 to this blade 98 v9...straight away i noticed balls flew more and i was missing long...i noticed there was more string movement/ snap in the mains than with the ezone 98.....i use a multi in the mains at 60lbs and poly crosses at 57lbs...i prefer to string tighter...i feel if i string looser the balls will fly like crazy
The Blade 104 v8 put me off of Blades. What a horrible P.O.S. that is. Played it with Confidential (poly) and with Velocity MLT (multi) and it played crap with either string setup. Played it in basic stock spec AND weighed up. Only positive was that it came in at exactly 290 g spec weight. Jonas was very enthusiastic about it. Shows how much of a review is personal preference. Btw my Blade 104 actually measured only 27,36" / 695 mm. Way shorter than my 2018 Babolat Pure Drive Plus (a stick mr. Aracic is familiar with, if I'm not mistaken).
Thank you! I am having issues with my ezone 100 hitting just long with my flatter style of play, and hate having to think about when to reduce my swing speed during play. The blade 100 was something I wanted to see if it would be better for my style and muscle memory. How is it compared to the ezone. I am also struggling with the double handed backhand with my ezone 100. Thanks!
I was waiting for this kind of review. I couldn't find Blade 100 demo here in Canada. Can you please give some insight about vcore 100 vs Blade 100. It's for my 11 year old son. He liked vcore 100 demo. Currently playing pure aero Light ( with 5 grams of weight in throat and 5 gms in buttcap)
I am surprised you did not try 101L. It is very stiff how you like, it’s 16x20 and super lite allowing you to customize it to any specs you would want.
About the 98, I wonder what string tension you used. Also, I feel you should have given the 18x20 a chance although the 98's don't seem to be your style. I think you did say once that you like "old lady racquets" or something along those lines. I tried the Blade 104 V8 a while back and liked it quite a bit. I still think you should give the Dunlops a try, specially the FX500.
Old lady statement was an exaggeration. Racquet can’t be too light or too heavy among other things. This process is tough but 1 that I recently tried I liked a lot
I've played with V8/V9 100 for a while. I don't think the 60 RA is accurate or tells the full story. the frame is decently chunky and doesn't give the bending feel.
Nick, when is the technifibre iso 305? You said you’ll test them when I asked you earlier haha. It’s exactly what you need, it’s stuff, and very much a serve racket, the power and ease you get on serve is incredible
Hi Nic, greetings from Hamburg! I tried the Blade 98 16x19 and Blade Pro 98 16x19 with Babolat Gut and Luxilon 4G 125. I kept shanking everything and the Blade (normal version) felt like I was hitting the ball with a piece of paper like in the old Kung FU movies trying to punch through paper. I am now using the RF Pro 01. Have you thought about testing the Pro Staff X (100 in)?
@@renatujkee I think I have found my racket. I restarted tennis after 20 year break with the Pro Staff 97, then Pro Staff RF97, then Babolat Aero 98, then Babolat Pure Strike 98, then the Blade and now the RF Pro. I am very happy. I feel like it is made for me (an older man of 51) looking for easier power yet with control and precision of the Pro Staff. I am very happy and not shanking any more!
I'm surprised you tried this racquet given the stiffness of your last Babolat racquet, off to Tecnifibre TF40 and ISO 300 for you! The 98 needs customisation with added weight.
You & I hit flat & have similiar game styles. You & I also like stiff racquets. I play with the Babolat Pure Strike 98, 18/20 & RA of 67. (I have added weight on the sides) I play with Head RIP Control 16G. I recommend you demo the Pure Strike series in your next video. 🙂
@@IntuitiveTennis My pleasure. It's unfortunate our favourite racquets got discontinued/modified & you'll find another racquet that fits you like I did.
Babolat wouldn't sponsor him [don't know why with all his viewers, maybe he was too honest saying it's more the player than the racquet) so he's looking at other manufacturers
why didn't you try out your one-handed backhand? I assume wilson, while not exclusively being designed for, probably is favorable for one-handed backhands given fed/sampras as main players.
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Shamir Tests Lighter Racquets
👉 ua-cam.com/video/jhasWhgzh8s/v-deo.htmlsi=nh9mmoSD9Rghd5Af
Hi Nick! I really enjoy your content on this channel! 👌
Just wanted to ask if you have a video about choosing the right grip size? I know there is a way of measuring from top of the finger to bottom of palm and another one when holding the racket to have a finger space...
But do you think that measurements might be right but if you have longer or shorter fingers,then you should go for smaller or bigger grip,if you understand what I mean? Thanks and all the best!
And also,on the forehand moving your thumb ( not keeping it wrapped around) has anything to do with the grip size?
Thanks again!
love the real-time feedback of these play tests over traditional racquet reviews, also very fun to watch!
Thank you
Good shit man. Always enjoy your videos. Thanks
Appreciate it! 🙏
Love that you pointed out how short the grip length is on Wilson rackets. I commented this on your first racket test and I will repeat it: Compare grip lengths and you will very quickly see that Yonex is the only one who gives more space for 2h backhand users. I swear that some companies like Wilson makes grip lengths made for 1h backhand users. The solution for this is to remove the original grip, replace it with a replacement grip of your choice, and go higher up on the handle with the replacement grip. Only adding overgrip at the top will feel weird, so it's really worth it to have the ground layer of replacement grip and then overgrip on top. Makes a big difference on Wilson/Babolat/Head rackets!
104 V8 for me. I love it. You just have to adjust to the flexibility. Of course, I played with a Pro Staff 85 from late 1983 until 1995. This 104 V8 is just a lighter and larger version of the same feel. Unfortunately, my 62 year old arms and joints can no longer handle the heavy Prostaff. I can still hit it, but not for very long.
Excellent analysis of the Blades. I am 58 years old, the 104 V8 allows me to continue feeling the old school rackets, with fine profiles, but without my leg speed and strength. For doubles it is also very good and has control, I just have to put a little more spin on my shots to achieve control.
As soon as I saw the thumbnail I clicked. Although your are not so racket racket reviewer you make the best racket reviews with those points play.
Please keep doing them also after picking your final racket
I might continue after 🙌
I really think you should test the Prince Tour line. 98, 100 310 and 100P 305. I really think 100 310 is close to what you are looking for. 100, open pattern, nice power/control ratio. Actually a hidden gem.
Also long grips perfect for two handed bh. Even the 100P is pretty open for a 18x20. Stiffness is low but don't feel that low imo.
The Prince Tour line is excellent.
I played with the Prince ATS Tour 100p (18x20). In my opinion one of the worst rackets I have ever bought. Off center shots feel like dead. I have no idea what it is with this racket, because the specs are really good for me. Too many shots are a challenge/ a lottery and I do not like the sound of it either.
@@MK------- Wow really? This is one of the few rackets I dont even need to put lead in the hoop because I feel they are so extremely stabile and balanced stock with big sweatspots. I play a lot with both the 100 and 100P. Prefer the 100 at clay and slower courts, and 100P indoors and hc. Very similar rackets and easy to switch between depending on conditions which I find great. Also love the sound, and the long handle is great. All subjective i guess. :)
@@peterfox863 That is the reason I bought it. People really like it. And then this happens... 🤣
The test I've been waiting for! I'm happy owner of 98 16/19 v9 and I love it❤
🙌
@@IntuitiveTennis Previously I used it with Luxilon Alu Power on 23kg and it was horrible to play. Now I use it with Head Sonic pro edge 1,25mm on 24kg and this is the best combo I've ever played. I live in Poland so my level I would say is pretty similar to D1 in USA.
Loving these racket testing videos!
Thank you
I suspect that in testing rackets we largely feel whatever we've been conditioned to feel by the racket description. I'd really like to see you do blind tests, where you don't know the specs of the rackets before you try them out and have to judge them purely on how they feel in use.
Good idea
Another great test video! I appreciate how critical and honest you are in these reviews so got excited when you got excited about the 104. But was dissapointed for you when it didn't work out in the end. Excited for the next one though! Are you planning on testing out any Head rackets?
Head speed coming soon
Hey, Nikola!
Gratz on your content. Really nice stuff.. Consider more videos about racquets. I've been following this new racquet journey series and loving it.
Keep it up, bud.
🙏
Hey Nick, many new releases coming out. Maybe you should try some before you make your final decision. New Ezones, new pure drives…the new Head Gravity 98 is getting lots of love. At least 4 UA-cam playtesters are switching to it. Happy Hollidays, best, John
Who’s switching?
@ Possibly 2 from Tennis Warehouse, one dude from Australia, and at least 1 more. They all post racket reviews. I know you love the pure drive. You should try the one just released. The new Ezones are different, too. Merry Christmas, Best, John Ps: I really enjoy your posts.🎾
great format for review ... tops on UA-cam ... thank you
Thanks! 🙏
Thanks. I love my Blade SW 104 v7 extra length. Man … when I take a full swing and hit the ball right, it feels GREAT! I look forward to trying the Blade 104 v.9 extra length.
Great playtest again Nick. I agree with the Blade v9 98, it is like a trampoline. I tested this racket for a week and at the end it felt much better, but I didnot like the racket because I lost controll with it too many times. The 100 indeed felt much better. But they are no comparison to my Blade V8 98 18x20. The controll and feel you get with this racket is unbelievable. Especially if you are a flathitter like me. And at the net this racket is so stable and easy.
I love the Blade V8 98 18x20 too - so stable and maneuverable! I've played with it for a year or so. Glad to know there's no need for me to update to a newer model!
I also thought it felt like a trampoline. I still switched to it though and got used to it lol.
I played the 104 for a couple of months. At first I loved it because I couldn't miss a forehand, and that's my worst shot. I quickly realized that I couldn't hold serve with it, which was bad because that's my best shot. My guess is because it's a featherweight tin can. I weighted it up, but just to continued to play worse and worse with it the longer I used it. I ended up taking the lead off of it and giving it to my 12 year old daughter. She loves it.
Watched all your racquet test videos. Wilson Ultra 100 will be your new racquet.
I'm going to make an odd racquet suggestion. The Donnay Formula Octacore. It's 300g, 100 sq inches, and is designed to compete with the Pure Drive. You liked the Pure Drive and had good things to say about the Nova. The Formula is in a similar spec range but more arm friendly. Jonas, at Tennis Nerd, had good things to say about it.
I didn't think the Blades would be up your alley, but seeing you play with them I think were great on offense. On defence might need some adjustments with these sticks, but interested to see your final 4 you will go with!
Just need a couple more for the final test.
Loving the racquet journey Nick, would be amazing to see you demo racquets with your regular string setup.
Thank you. Some of the racquets have my strings. My thought process is if I like the racquet with other poly strings I will like it even more with mine.
Also I’m comfortable with most co polys.
Very few exceptions
Just from my own experience, as a beginner and not knowing what I was doing I used a low powered 18×20 Speed Pro and really struggled to hit spin but I kept at it and finally managed to hit decent top spin. I shifted to an Ezone and my coach says I really hit everything with a lot of spin now.
So many people love the Ezone. Milan switched to the ezone100 and he is playing the best tennis I’ve seen him play
Great racquet
Hi Nik, greetings from Italy🇮🇹. For me you should give the Wilson Burn 100 a chance, it's a racket that is a bit overlooked, because the Ultra is preferred as a power racket and the Shift as a spin racket, but playing with the Burn for a year now I can tell you that I prefer it to the Ultra because not only it is a powerful and reactive racket (maybe the Ultra is even more powerful), but for me it has a better feel and the sensation of the ball is better than the Ultra. The Burn is a bit of an all-purpose racket, and is definitely more spin friendly than the Ultra. It's a stiff racket but it moves very well, I also tried the lighter LS versions with the 18x16 string pattern and I found them very nice even if they wear out the strings more. It's also cheaper and I can say that quality-price is definitely one of the best on the market.
I will consider the burn 🙌
I like the Blade V6 98 without the Counter weight. Great job on the video Coach.
Nice
I switched to the Blade 100 this year. I think a more crisp and lively poly helps with the low RA. 5-10grams in the handle also gives it a bit more connected feel for me. I think the slightly thicker beam is what you were feeling between the 98 and 100.
You are 100% right. I overlooked that in the specs. 98 is 21 mm the others are 22mm
🙌
Blade 100 v8 or v9?
I play with Blade100v9 and love it. I like feel rackets with thin beams and lower to medium stiffness. If you are used to playing with powerful Babolat 100" tweeners like the PureAero or PureDrive, you aren't initially going to like the Blade series because they are more flexible offer a smidge less power and a smidge more control. Nik should just stick with stiffer tweeners to optimize his serve. I like the Blade100v9 and the Head Speed MP (100) as these are softer and have a good blend of feel, power and comfort (flex). Personally, I think the Blade100v9 is the best 100 on the market but racket choice is very personal and a lot of depends on what you have been using in the past.
It’s so tough with the serve and forehand combo. Hard to find one that feels good for both. I’ll make a video on this dilemma.
What strings you use on the 100?
@@KozielloRU Hybrid: multifilament Technifibre NRG2 16g mains at 54 lbs with poly Kirschbaum Max Power 17G crosses at 50 lbs. I drop tension on M and X by 2 to 4 lbs in colder weather. I play outside in the winter with temps 40-60 F.
Ultra Pro 305g (16*19); RA is low but much stiffer feeling and easy power due to frame thickness. Good control
Otherwise, another good option would be a gravity tour 98 (305g) in the coming January (2025); testers often say stiffer feeling than other Auxetic versions released last year from the series (295, 305; 100 sq etc.)
I tried them as well and settled on 100L - 70RA very nice. I do play OHB
I love the Blade 98 16x19. To me one of the most complete racquets in the market. I have no issues with that frame
I highly suggest you try the Solinco Whiteout 18x20. More power and spin than the Blade and stiffer.
I will try solinco
Blackout extended should be similar with Pure Drive +
Nick try Head Radical Line pleaseee, its pretty good
Great job Nick. Appreciate your honesty and insight.
I used Blade 98 couple of yours ago V8 I guess it was. Never liked it.
Thank you Milan
Amazing reviews. Really emphasize how subjective tennis racquet reviews are - Different frames for different players. But I know that you want the opposite things from a racquet than mine (I like the Blade 98 18x20), so I'll keep following these reviews for a potential switch 😂
Thank you. Yes reviews are for me but I’ll try to include comments on what type of players could benefit from the racquet I’m testing .
Imo you can play very well with the lastest Tecnifibre's racquet, the Moutet's one.
I have a feeling the 18x20 would fix your trampoline effect issue with the blade 98.
VCore 95/98/100 next!
Deffo need some Yonex in the house
Nah. Not his style. Demoed the 100 and it wasn’t good at all. Prefer ezone
Well, it's mushy as well so he won't like it. Plus he doesn't like the shape of Yonex rackets
100 light was best for me cause of 69RA
Hi Nick , I don’t know if you dislike the Yonex head shapes but in case you’re not , definitely the Ezone 100 and Percept 100D can be really a good match to your previous racquet . Actually because of the isometric shape even the 98’s are 100-like near the sweetspot and norrowing down to the throat . 100D is a 18x19 super spin friendly but witha good control/power ratio and it is very good for flat shots . I actually prefer Ezone 98 to the 100 . Both sticks are 67/66 RA so quite firm compared to all the recent release . If the beam size is a thing then Ezone 100 all the way . Best whishes for the new racquet coming as it will be destroyed by your finishes !! 😎
Thank you
I tried the Ezone ua-cam.com/video/Rb3scUabHOQ/v-deo.htmlsi=8yM2SggjKQfTXCN0
Percept test coming soon
Possibly v core too
Yeah i'd like to see you try the new vcores for sure @@IntuitiveTennis
@@IntuitiveTennis
@@The4.0Guywill do
You really should test the Solinco Whiteout XTD 16/19, perfect blend of power and control. Grüße aus Deutschland
Will test solinco LG
these videos are awesome
Thank you 🙏
Makes sense, dropped my blade a year ago as also too spongey
The Blade 98 (16x19) needs customizing to optimise performance. you need lead at 3/9 and 12 to open the sweet spot and it adds stability and plough through, Also a slightly higher string tension will minimise trampolining.
Howabout the Blade Pro? The string pattern looks more open than the Blade 98 with 16x19. Similar to a Pro Staff. So I reckon the Blade Pro would have the best feel.
I play tested quite a few rackets, Yonex pro 97D, Prestige but settled on v8 blade 98 - good all rounder
Try the Solincos, I think you will like the Whiteouts.
Testing this week
Hey Nik. Great video, as always. I thought I'd let you know that something has happened to your audio and it now lacks crispness and clarity. I started to notice it in the last couple of weeks. The audio is a bit muffled and lacking high frequencies. I'm sure it's something that likely can be fixed with just a bit of EQ. All the best!
Thank you. Yes continued audio problems. This one sounds weird on YT but normal on my end 😩
@@IntuitiveTennis Sounds like it's YT compression that's at fault. Maybe your uploaded videos are too big/too high spec and YT compresses them aggressively?
@@deepseadiver8191actually I figured it out. It was the voice isolation at start of video. Couldn’t not be corrected unfortunately bc the live audio was poor from construction noise.
Try the Dunlop sx 300 tour my friend. You may like it 😅
Trying the fx500 this week
If you have access and want old school feel. CX200 Tour 16x19 has great feel but would need lead for heavy hitting as SW is low. Definitely not a Hyper-hammer. It's fast though, more control than Blade, Ezone, etc.
I got one when they did a colour change and sold old stock for next to nothing. When doing FX500, compare to SX300 or CX400 and CX Tour 200 for giggles. @@IntuitiveTennis
How about head speed mp. Ivanisevic used it few years back
I tested it, video coming soon
Love it
@@gdraskovic🙌
Try the 100L, with some tac in the handle it will be right up your alley Nick
Great suggestion but I just can’t with the Blades 😩😂
@@IntuitiveTennis Towards the end of your video it became clear the Blade is not your jam. Oh well, onwards and upwards on the frustrating racquet journey. At least it's good for channel content 👍
I’m surprised you like 16x19 so much given your flatter strokes, Nick. But if you do, and like stiffer, try Dunlop FX 500!
I’m testing fx500 this week
I switched from ezone 98 to this blade 98 v9...straight away i noticed balls flew more and i was missing long...i noticed there was more string movement/ snap in the mains than with the ezone 98.....i use a multi in the mains at 60lbs and poly crosses at 57lbs...i prefer to string tighter...i feel if i string looser the balls will fly like crazy
Can't wait to learn what you land on!
The Blade 104 v8 put me off of Blades. What a horrible P.O.S. that is. Played it with Confidential (poly) and with Velocity MLT (multi) and it played crap with either string setup. Played it in basic stock spec AND weighed up. Only positive was that it came in at exactly 290 g spec weight. Jonas was very enthusiastic about it. Shows how much of a review is personal preference. Btw my Blade 104 actually measured only 27,36" / 695 mm. Way shorter than my 2018 Babolat Pure Drive Plus (a stick mr. Aracic is familiar with, if I'm not mistaken).
What string and tension were used in playtest?
Thank you!
I am having issues with my ezone 100 hitting just long with my flatter style of play, and hate having to think about when to reduce my swing speed during play.
The blade 100 was something I wanted to see if it would be better for my style and muscle memory.
How is it compared to the ezone.
I am also struggling with the double handed backhand with my ezone 100.
Thanks!
Ezone more power
I know a lot people love them but I've just never been able to gel with the Blades.
Same
Try a Wilson Ultra v4 Nick ;-)
Ultra seems more like the racquet for coach Nick. Super stiff rating lol
Have you tested the Ezone series?
I have ua-cam.com/video/Rb3scUabHOQ/v-deo.htmlsi=8yM2SggjKQfTXCN0
Try also the dunlop sx300 and tour. I think that will fit you well.
I was waiting for this kind of review. I couldn't find Blade 100 demo here in Canada. Can you please give some insight about vcore 100 vs Blade 100. It's for my 11 year old son. He liked vcore 100 demo. Currently playing pure aero Light ( with 5 grams of weight in throat and 5 gms in buttcap)
Haven’t tried vcore
I am surprised you did not try 101L. It is very stiff how you like, it’s 16x20 and super lite allowing you to customize it to any specs you would want.
Should have yes
What’s your leading candidate for a new racquet at this time?
Shift 300
Are you going to test Babolat pure strike family? Seems like something you might like coming from a PD?
Nikola can you make a video on the on court coaching new thing and how changes the game, i have seen a lot of players online mad about it.
I’ll talk about it
Maybe try Radical MP / Gravity MP?
@@vitaly_filimonov gravity mp too low powered and a very low stiffness rating
And new 98 tour
@@bmanbusee3812 you are right
why is trampoline effect bad?
About the 98, I wonder what string tension you used. Also, I feel you should have given the 18x20 a chance although the 98's don't seem to be your style. I think you did say once that you like "old lady racquets" or something along those lines. I tried the Blade 104 V8 a while back and liked it quite a bit.
I still think you should give the Dunlops a try, specially the FX500.
Old lady statement was an exaggeration. Racquet can’t be too light or too heavy among other things. This process is tough but 1 that I recently tried I liked a lot
You should try the Pure Strike
I think the whole purpose is for him to move away from Babolat. He’s been using the Pure Drive Plus for like 10 years.
@@dustyroot4708 yeah you're probably right 😂
Head speed?
I hope you will also try Tecnifibre Rackets. Tfight 295 or 300 are great rackets. 295 (100 inch and 70 RA) / 300 (98 inch and 66 RA). I love bouth
Tried the tf x1 ua-cam.com/video/Rb3scUabHOQ/v-deo.htmlsi=5MUg7967V4DYxo4N
Will try more
Maybe I missed it but what strings and tension did you use for this test?
Thanks you for sharing it ❤
Please review Babolat Pure Aero Tennis Racquet
I think your knee is affecting your game more than the rackets. Moving like an old guy this week. Ive a v8 blade 98 and it is a bit mushy too.
Good video ❤ I didn't like the blade 100v9 as well, I tried the Head speed mp version and I loved it, maybe you should also 😅
I tried the speed. Video coming soon
I've played with V8/V9 100 for a while. I don't think the 60 RA is accurate or tells the full story. the frame is decently chunky and doesn't give the bending feel.
low RA that feel stiff are weird and possibly not measured accurately
Nick, when is the technifibre iso 305? You said you’ll test them when I asked you earlier haha.
It’s exactly what you need, it’s stuff, and very much a serve racket, the power and ease you get on serve is incredible
I believe it's quite similar to the wilson hyperhammer due to it being head heavy.
Will try more technifibres
@@IntuitiveTennis thank you! The unique 18:19 pattern might actually suit you!
For me the blade is the best racket especially for 1 handed back hand
Give the Blade 100 another chance. It is a very good racquet.👍👍👍👍👍👍
Not for me 😭
Said it before, saying it again... have a look at the Radical MP and Pro although they are 98 sq in
I will consider them
98 18x20 leather grip + overgrip - try it
Hi Nic, greetings from Hamburg!
I tried the Blade 98 16x19 and Blade Pro 98 16x19 with Babolat Gut and Luxilon 4G 125. I kept shanking everything and the Blade (normal version) felt like I was hitting the ball with a piece of paper like in the old Kung FU movies trying to punch through paper. I am now using the RF Pro 01. Have you thought about testing the Pro Staff X (100 in)?
How does it feels about RF series?
@@renatujkee I think I have found my racket. I restarted tennis after 20 year break with the Pro Staff 97, then Pro Staff RF97, then Babolat Aero 98, then Babolat Pure Strike 98, then the Blade and now the RF Pro. I am very happy. I feel like it is made for me (an older man of 51) looking for easier power yet with control and precision of the Pro Staff. I am very happy and not shanking any more!
Not sure about pro staff, I might try
@@IntuitiveTennisPro Staff X version
Got to try the Pro Staff X.
What strings and grip size?
For me? Blade pro 18x20
Try Dunlop fx 500 v2
I am
I'm surprised you tried this racquet given the stiffness of your last Babolat racquet, off to Tecnifibre TF40 and ISO 300 for you! The 98 needs customisation with added weight.
Blade v8 team is discontinued?
If you like 104 extended length, why not try the SW 102? 18 x 19 , high RA…
Im done with the blades for good 😂
You & I hit flat & have similiar game styles. You & I also like stiff racquets. I play with the Babolat Pure Strike 98, 18/20 & RA of 67. (I have added weight on the sides) I play with Head RIP Control 16G. I recommend you demo the Pure Strike series in your next video. 🙂
Thank you for the recommendation but I’m gonna pass on B
ua-cam.com/video/YhrrJtlgi30/v-deo.htmlsi=juwjwzU8uEmpRnN7
@@IntuitiveTennis My pleasure. It's unfortunate our favourite racquets got discontinued/modified & you'll find another racquet that fits you like I did.
@@Mogirl21🙏
pure drive 100 is the best serve racket hands down
Why aren't you trying the latest PD? The 30th Anniversary one looks very special!
He hates babolat now
Babolat wouldn't sponsor him [don't know why with all his viewers, maybe he was too honest saying it's more the player than the racquet) so he's looking at other manufacturers
Well I reckon the Shift 99 300g will be the pick. Closest spec to the PD.
do a video on aero 98
do again with pro staff line up
I might
Blade 100L has 69 RA; 285g, 5pt hl unstrung doe, but can be spec up
And it feels niceee
why didn't you try out your one-handed backhand? I assume wilson, while not exclusively being designed for, probably is favorable for one-handed backhands given fed/sampras as main players.
Because I play w 2-h backhand
blade is the most muted racquet out there.. i think head gravity match your game
Off center shots on 98 blade v7 and v8 was 100% worse than v9. The v9 was actually the only blade I enjoyed.
Blade PRO PRO PRO PRO PROOOOOO. Must try the PRO
Do a Prestige test.
Gonna pass on the prestige (love it tho, have one just can’t play w it)